The Ultimate Sensory Processing Disorder Quiz

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a poorly understood condition that affects thousands of children each year. SPD can greatly impact your child's everyday functioning, everything from eating and getting dressed to socializing with peers and succeeding at school. Take this quiz and learn more about this common, yet misunderstood disorder.

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Question 1 of 15

Sensory processing refers to:

how well your sensory organs work

how your brain receives sensory messages

Sensory processing refers to how your brain receives and transmits messages to and from the senses. Sensory processing is also known as sensory integration (SI).

both of the above

Question 2 of 15

Which of the following activities requires sensory processing?

riding a bike

eating a slice of pizza

both of the above

Sensory processing is a vital brain function and is typically involved in almost everything you do, from riding a bike to eating pizza.

Question 3 of 15

Someone with sensory processing disorder has difficulty:

receiving incoming sensory information

interpreting or processing sensory information

both of the above

People with sensory processing disorder, also known as sensory integration dysfunction, have difficulty with receiving sensory information in the brain. These individuals also have difficulty processing sensory information once it is received in the brain.

Question 4 of 15

What are some difficulties typically experienced by a child with sensory processing disorder?

clumsiness and academic difficulties

anxiety and depression

both of the above

A child with sensory processing disorder is at risk for a whole host of mental health concerns, including academic difficulties, behavioral problems, anxiety and depression. These kids also experience motor clumsiness.

Question 5 of 15

What percentage of children experience symptoms related to sensory processing disorder?

1 percent

5 percent

According to the Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation, approximately 5 percent of children experience sensory processing disorder symptoms to the extent that it interferes with daily life functioning.

8 percent

Question 6 of 15

Someone with sensory processing disorder might:

over-respond to sensory stimulation

under-respond to sensory stimulation

both of the above

Some people with SPD over-respond to stimulation and find certain senses unbearable, like the sensation of clothing or bright lights. Other people with SPD under-respond to stimulation and may not react to extreme hot or cold sensations.

Question 7 of 15

Children with the under-responsive type of SPD may go misdiagnosed as:

depressed

hyperactive

Children who under-respond to stimulation may be in constant hyper drive, seeking stimulation at every turn. These kids may go misdiagnosed as having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

anxious

Question 8 of 15

What causes sensory processing disorder?

birth complications

genetics

both of the above

Preliminary findings from the SPD Foundation suggest that the disorder is genetic. Birth complications and other environmental factors may also contribute to the disorder.

Question 9 of 15

Children with SPD may also experience:

social isolation

low self-esteem

both of the above

Unfortunately, children with SPD may experience frequent teasing by peers and underachievement at school. This can result in social isolation and low self-esteem.

Children with SPD typically don't have intellectual difficulties. Rather, these children require different educational modalities for learning.

Question 12 of 15

Children with SPD benefit from:

physical therapy

occupational therapy

Children with SPD benefit greatly from occupational therapy that takes a sensory integration approach.

tutoring

Question 13 of 15

What is the goal of occupational therapy for a child with SPD?

to let a child burn off some energy

to teach a child appropriate sensory responses

The primary goal of occupation therapy for SPD involves teaching appropriate ways to respond to various sensory information. Occupational therapy sessions take place in a highly stimulating environment, such as an “OT” gym.

both of the above

Question 14 of 15

A “sensory diet” involves:

limiting your child's sensory activities at home

encouraging your child's sensory activities at home

Occupation therapy for SPD takes a family approach. Parents are encouraged to learn more about their child's unique needs and to implement a “sensory diet” of sensory activities at home.

focusing on one of the senses at home

Question 15 of 15

What is the outcome of occupational therapy for SPD?

A child is able to engage in normal age-appropriate activities.

Following successful occupational therapy, a child with SPD should be able to engage in everyday, age-appropriate activities, such as, playing with friends, enjoying school, eating properly, and so on.